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To become a fully qualified teacher, you usually need to have gained an undergraduate degree. There are several courses available in the UK (for both primary and secondary education) that’ll provide you with a degree and make sure you’re qualified to teach. These are led by Initial Teacher Training (ITT) providers – specific universities, colleges and schools that offer training.

A Bachelor of Education (BEd) course leads to an undergraduate honours degree. In Scotland, it leads to a Master of Education (MEd) degree. Full-time degrees generally last three years, or four in Scotland. Part-time degrees take four to six years.

BEd/MEd is popular for those who want to be primary school teachers. Some ITT providers run secondary level-specific BEd courses. These are usually limited to subjects such as Music and Physical Education. Secondary courses are common in Scotland but the qualification achieved is an MA(Ed).

What's a BEd/MEd course like?

Generally, you’ll learn about your subject and teaching practice in more depth while gaining experience in schools. You’ll study subjects associated with your strand of teaching and some professional studies. You’ll also take part in extended placements while conducting action-based research.

MEd students have a fourth year of study. You'll develop your understanding of education in society and further improve your practice.

What are the entry requirements for a BEd/MEd course?

GCSEs grade A–C (or equivalent) in English and Maths (B or above in Wales) – if you want to teach at primary level you must also have at least one GCSE grade A–C (or equivalent) in Science (B or above in Wales)

Good A-Level/Highers grades – if you want to teach at secondary level you’ll need an A-Level in a relevant subject

You must pass your professional skills tests before undertaking any teacher training in England

In England and Wales, you can gain a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). BA/BSc with QTS courses focus on providing you with specialist subject knowledge to teach your chosen subject, whereas BEd/MEd courses focus on the principles of teaching and learning.

Full-time degrees generally last three to four years with part-time study lasting four to six. Courses only exist in England and Wales.

BA/BSc with QTS courses are common for students looking to become secondary school teachers, but some courses are designed for primary school teaching.

What’s a BA/BSc with QTS course like?

You’ll spend a lot of time on school placements where you conduct action-based research, implement a teaching practice and report on its impact on learning.

What are the entry requirements for a BA/BSc with QTS course?

GCSEs A–C (or equivalent) in English and Maths (B or above in Wales) – if you want to teach at primary level, you must also have at least one GCSE A–C (or equivalent) in Science (B or above in Wales)

Good A Levels/Highers (or equivalent) with at least one in your specialist subject – a minimum amount of UCAS points is usually needed

You must pass your professional skills tests before any teacher training in England

How do you apply for a BA/BSc with QTS course?

You can apply for a BA/BSc with QTS course via UCAS. You may have to attend an interview, which will include knowledge audits.

You’re subject to Disclosure and Barring Services (DBS) checks as part of the admissions process.

What funding is available for BA/BSc with QTS courses?

You’ll be eligible for the same government funding awarded to all undergraduate students, according to the same criteria. A £9,000 bursary is available for undergraduate trainees in Physics or Maths at secondary level in England. You'll receive the bursary in your final year.